Curtis Orrben, whose industry career spanned 25 years, passed away on Friday, November 28, 2008 after a heroic battle with cancer.
Orrben’s diversified career in the industry included positions on the distribution side of our business as well as leading industry chemical manufacturers. As one of the first employees of the DuPont Professional Products business, Orrben is credited with having a major role in building the business from the ground up. He spent the last five years at DuPont leading a team of sales representatives, meeting the needs of professional and consumer customers and exceeding corporate goals. Orrben was highly regarded by his colleagues, his customers and his peers and was the recipient of numerous awards.
“Curtis will be remembered for his many professional contributions, but in particular, for his strong values and ethics, his vast friendships throughout the industry and his warmth and upbeat personality,” said Mike McDermott, global business leader for DuPont Professional Products. “For the many years I have known Curtis, including time prior to DuPont, he always provided unwavering support to his colleagues, always went the extra mile to get a job done and always knew just what to say to make people laugh. He will be greatly missed by us and many, many other personal and professional friends.”
Orrben touched the lives of many throughout the industry. He was active on the membership committee of RISE (Responsible Industry for a Sound Environment), and a member of the Environmental Institute for Golf, the National Pest Management Association and the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America.
Orrben is survived by his wife, Brenda; his sons, Nick and Oliver; and his daughter, Gina.